Perhaps a forgotten love story lingers in the air here at Quinta do Monte do Carmo. It is a place steeped in history and winemaking tradition. The story of Quinta do Carmo begins in the 17th century. Back then it was known as Herdade das Carvalhas. King João IV built it for a lady of his court. His goal was the production of wine olive oil cork and cattle.
Later in 2008 the Bacalhoa Vinhos de Portugal group acquired Quinta do Carmo. Today Quinta do Carmo stands as the winemaking center for all Bacalhoa’s Alentejo wines. It is equipped with modern technology. It has a capacity of 3 million liters. The operating system maximizes smoothness. It ensures stability throughout the winemaking process.
Quinta do Carmo boasts around 350 hectares. These are spread across various properties. You can find them in Estremoz Arronches Borba and Arraiolos. The vineyards are rich with traditional Alentejo varieties. Aragonez Trincadeira Alfrocheiro and Alicante Bouschet thrive here. Newer varieties also flourish. Touriga Nacional Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon add to the diversity.
The Alentejo wines are entirely produced with their own grapes. This ensures total control. It spans from grape to bottle. Small-capacity fermentation vats allow separate vinification. This is done for several vine varieties per vineyard. There is also a special vinification unit. It is adapted to manual harvesting. Fermentation takes place in robotic wineries there.
Quinta do Carmo offers a total experience. It has 1000 hectares. These hectares are divided between vineyards olive groves and cork oaks. You can visit the Jardim das Montanhas Mágicas. It opened in 2015. It merges contemporary art with the Alentejo cork oak forest. The garden uses the famous Estremoz marble.
The winery produces around 3.5 million liters annually. Here you can discover how the best Alentejo nectar is produced. You can also enjoy a guided visit with a private guide. The tour covers the winery and garden. The visit concludes with a tasting. You can sample 4 super premium wines. These are accompanied by olive oil from the estate’s own production. The wines may include Quinta do Carmo White and Red. Also Quinta do Carmo White Reserve and Red Reserve.
Even today Quinta do Carmo wines maintain an unmistakable style. The cellar techniques blend modern innovation with tradition. The white Quinta do Carmo and the Quinta do Carmo Reserve are very popular. They have achieved great success far beyond Portugal.
As we stand here let’s appreciate Quinta do Monte do Carmo. It is more than just a winery. It is a living testament to Portuguese history. It is a symbol of enduring dedication to quality winemaking. And it all began with a king’s affection for a lady of his court.